Business names

BUSINESS INFORMATION

Choosing the right name is an important step in creating the image you want for your business and setting yourself apart from competitors..

A clear and descriptive name that reflects the products or services you offer helps customers quickly understand what your business provides. Consider selecting a name that allows flexibility for future growth or changes in your offerings.

Make sure to register your chosen business name to secure it for your operations and avoid any potential disputes.

Tip

The Australian Government has simplified registering a business through the Business Registration Service. This online platform allows you to apply for essential business registrations all in one place, including:

Australian Business Number (ABN)

Business name

Company registration

Tax registrations (such as GST and PAYG withholding)
This streamlined service ensures you can complete key business setup requirements efficiently and hassle-free.

You can link multiple business names to your Australian Business Number (ABN). To register a business name, you must have an ABN or an ABN application reference number. Obtaining an ABN is free of charge.

Is it necessary to register a business name?

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) manages a national business name in Australia.

If you trade using your name, there’s no need to register a separate business name.

If you wish to trade under a different name, register it as a business name with ASIC.

Your company name must also be registered with ASIC for those operating under a company business structure.

Legal Name	Business or trading name	Do I need to register?
Jane Brown	Jane Brown's Catering	Yes
Jane Brown	Jane Brown	No
Alex Green and Lucy White	Alex and Lucy Plumbing	Yes
Alex Green and Lucy White	Alex Green and Lucy White	No
Sarah Tylor Pty Ltd	Tylor Renovations	Yes
Sarah Tylor Pty Ltd	Sarah Tylor Pty Ltd	No
The Tylor Pty Ltd	The Tylor	Yes

Business Procedure

Deciding on a business name

Your business name forms the first impression of your business, so it’s crucial to select it carefully. Consider the following:

What image does the name convey to clients?
Is the name easy to remember, pronounce, and spell?
Does it reflect the services or products you offer?
Is the name already in use by another business?
Can the name be registered as a domain for your online presence?
Is the name available on social media platforms you plan to use now or in the future?

TIP: Registering a business, company, or domain name does not grant exclusive ownership. To secure exclusive rights to the name across Australia, you may need to register it as a trademark.

Steps Before Registering a Business Name

Trademark Search: Check if the name is identical or similar to an existing trademark using IP Australia’s trademark search tool.
Domain Availability: Verify the availability of your desired domain name through Domain Administration (auDA). Ensure it’s available on social media platforms you intend to use.
License Requirements: Research any specific licenses needed for your business type in Western Australia.

Key Considerations

Having a registered business name

Does not give ownership or exclusive rights to the name.
Does not prevent someone else from registering a similar name.
Does not stop another party from using it if they hold a registered trademark for the name.
Does not protect you from legal actions if the name infringes on someone else’s intellectual property.

Registering a business name fulfils a legal obligation but does not guarantee the protection of intellectual property. To ensure comprehensive protection, consider trademark registration. Learn more about the distinctions between a trademark, business name, and domain name.

Registering a business name

Once you have confirmed that your desired business name is available, you can register it through the Business Registration Service or ASIC Connect. To complete the process, you will need an Australian Business Number (ABN), and a registration fee applies.

For detailed guidance on registering your business name, including step-by-step instructions and helpful videos, visit the ASIC website.